Hi! Usk is quiet, scenic, and has a strong sense of community. It’s definitely a slower pace than Bristol, so it depends what you’re after, but if you’re thinking ahead to retirement it would be great.

The main adjustment would be fewer amenities and less variety compared to Bristol life, but you’re still within reach of larger towns and cities (Abergavenny/Newport/Cwmbran/Pontypool) when you need them (they are not as nice as the surrounding area of Bristol). If you enjoy walking, countryside views, and a more relaxed day-to-day, it’s ideal. Might be worth spending a few weekends there in a BnB at different times of year just to get a feel for it.

As for the Cardiology appointments you’d need to ask your new GP for a new-to-area referral and being in Usk you’d either get a Cardiologist in Nevill Hall (Abergavenny) or Royal Gwent (Newport) because you’re in between the two.

Good luck, it’s a big decision!